Nonfiction Monday: Citizen Scientists by Loree Burns, photographs by Ellen Harasimowicz

I am always looking for books that will encourage kids to go outside and experience nature. I'm also always searching for books that will inspire kids to choose something they feel passionate about. I get frustrated to the point of screaming by the number of aimless children, especially middle schoolers, that I see every day. They have no hobbies, no interests outside of tv, celebrities, school gossips. They don't get excited about anything.

This book combines a love of nature with the intense following of passion and it's AMAZING.

Loree Burns, author of several great entries in the Scientists in the Field series, tackles four science projects that ordinary citizens - and kids - can get involved in; birds, butterflies, frogs, and ladybugs. We learn the history of the project, why it's important, how to participate, and hear the stories of some of the kids who are involved. Every page is studded with photos, facts, experiences, ideas, and information.

At the end of the book there are resources for each of the four projects - books, field guides, internet resources, and how to get involved. There's additional resources and bibliographies, a glossary, and index as well.

Verdict: An exciting and interesting book, I intend for this to be the basis of some great science projects in 2014 when the summer reading theme is science! I can't wait to get the kids involved and I hope reading this book will get some of them involved on their own.

ISBN: 9780805090628; Published February 2012 by Henry Holt; Borrowed from the library; Purchased for the library